What to Pack for Your Trip to Iceland

Disclaimer: This is not a sponsored post. All recommendations are my own.

I wanted to share with you my list of essential items that I found really useful during my self-drive holiday around Iceland’s Ring Road and Golden Circle. Weather in Iceland can really vary greatly. During the summer months, Iceland has really long light hours, so on a sunny day, it can actually get quite hot, especially in the afternoon as it warms up over the day. But when the weather turns bad, it can get cold, windy, and very rainy. You can get all four seasons in one day, so think about layering your clothing so you can easily strip down when it gets warm, then layer back up if the weather turns cold.

During spring and autumn the weather is very changeable. We visited at the end of September/start of October and had a sunny day where we stripped down to t-shirts and light hiking pants. But a few days later it was snowing, with freezing icy, windy sleet. At this time of year, I recommend packing both light clothing, and also very warm thermals, and an insulated, waterproof jacket.

if you are visiting in winter, then you can guarantee that it is going to get really cold, including snow and icy winds. You need to pack some good quality thermals, warm jacket and waterproof boots to keep your feet toasty and dry.

However, in a strange twist, don’t forget to pack your swimwear if you plan to visit one of the many amazing hot springs!

Tips

Check out my other travel tip posts:

• If you are aiming to travel light, especially if you are travelling with hand luggage only or are backpacking, then check out my post on How to Pack an Extra Light Toiletry Bag.
• If you are flying to Iceland on a long haul flight, then read my post about What I Pack in My Hand Luggage for a Comfortable Long Haul Flight.
• If you are travelling to Iceland during the winter, then read my post on How to Stay Warm on a Winter Vacation.
• Whether you are trying to sleep on the plane, bus, train or an uncomfortable hotel room, read my Secrets to Sleeping Well Whilst Travelling.
• Here are my top tips for How to Deal with Laundry While on Holiday.
• If you have IBS, then read about My Tips for Travelling with IBS.

GADGETS

Noise Cancelling Headphones

If you need to take a long flight to get to Iceland, then noise cancelling headphones, or at the very least some earplugs, will make your trip much more comfortable. If you find it difficult to get the ear plugs to stay in your ears, you may prefer using the silicone earplugs. I never realised just how loud the plane engines and passengers were, and its effect on me until my husband lent me his noise cancelling headphones. Firstly, they make it so much easier to hear the movies. With the usual crappy headset that you’re given on the plane, I usually have to crank the sound all the way up to be able to hear what the characters are saying over the drone of the engines (and I have perfect hearing!). But with the noise cancelling headphones I can listen to the movie at a normal volume. It also significantly improves the movie experience because I can hear the conversations and the sound effects much more clearly.

Secondly, even when you’re not watching movies, these are perfect to wear throughout your flight with the noise cancelling function turned on to cancel out the surrounding sounds. When I take them off to go to the bathroom, I am always surprised at just how loud it is inside the plane and how much noise the headphones are blocking. I find that it helps me to feel much more relaxed on the plane and I’m even able to get some sleep (and I can’t usually sleep on planes), and I don’t feel as tired when I step off the plane.

Bose noise cancelling headphones are considered the best and their user reviews support this, however, they are very expensive. If you’re looking for something more affordable, then try the Sony noise cancelling headphones. They also get excellent reviews but are much cheaper. Both models feature active noise cancelling and the necessary airplane connections.

Guide Books in Ebook Format

Guide books really come in handy when planning your trip, but they can be rather bulky, heavy and annoying to travel with. However, both Rick Steves Iceland and Lonely Planet Iceland come in kindle format, making them really easy travelling companions that you can view on your phone, kindle, phone or tablet.

Iceland Maps

If you’re planning on renting a car, don’t waste money hiring a GPS from the car rental company. You can use your phone or tablet to navigate by using Google Online Maps or Google’s free Offline Maps. Google Offline Maps allow you to access free maps for navigating that can be used offline i.e. you don’t need WiFi, data, or roaming to be able to use them. Use this detailed guide on how to use Googles Offline Maps.

Using your phone as a GPS will drain your battery quickly, so make sure you travel with a portable charger so you don’t get stranded. For easy navigating I also recommend you purchase a car phone mount holder.

And finally, you could also purchase a Iceland road map. At least it’s reliable and won’t run out of battery or malfunction like the electronic options!

Adaptor Plug

In Iceland the standard voltage is 220V and the standard frequency is 50Hz. They use a European two round prong plugs. If you don’t already live in a country that uses this plug type, then you are better off purchasing a worldwide adaptor that can be used in Ireland as well other countries. At least this way you can potentially get some further use out of it on future vacations as it can be used in over 150 countries and also comes with two USB ports. If you’re taking a number of electronics with you, then I would recommend purchasing a couple of these adaptors.

Portable Battery Charger

A portable battery charger is an essential item when you’re travelling, because using roaming and navigation can really run your phone down. This handy portable external battery charger can charge your phone, tablet, and any other USB chargeable device. If you’re planning on driving around the Icelandic countryside, then for safety reasons you want to ensure that you have enough charge on your phone to make an emergency call.

Compact Camera

A small, light camera that enables you to take high quality photos and videos of your fantastic vacation is a must. This Canon compact camera features 20.3 MP, 40x zoom with image stabilizer, wide angle lens and 4K video. It even includes built in Wifi that allows you to use your smartphone or tablet to remotely control the camera. Don’t forget to purchase a quality SD card that has the capacity for all your photos and videos as well as being fast enough capture full 4K video.

CLOTHING

Swimwear

If you plan to visit some of the wonderful hot springs that Iceland is so well known for, then don’t forget to pack your swimwear and a travel towel that packs up nice and small in your bag and dries quickly. If you have forgotten to pack either or both, then don’t panic. At the luxury hot springs, they hire both swimwear and towels. To plan your trip, use my Guide to Iceland’s Best Hot Springs, where I provide a detailed list of Iceland’s best luxury, budget and free hot springs.

Waterproofs

Warm Waterproof Jacket

You will need a good rain coat to keep you warm and dry. I love the Helly Hansen range of raincoats because they are waterproof, windproof and breathable and can also be packed up small. These mens and womens rain jackets are perfect for summer, and can also be worn over warm layers in autumn and spring. However, if you’re planning on visiting Iceland in the winter months, then I recommend that you purchase the insulated men’s and women’s rain coats instead.

Waterproof Pants

If you are planning on doing some hiking, then make sure you take some quick drying hiking pants with you and also some waterproof over pants. I like the Helly Hanson range of waterproof over pants.

Gaiters

If you are planning on doing a lot of hiking, then I recommend taking some gaiters with you. Because it rains so much, the hiking trails can get muddy and wet.

Sports Bra (if you plan to horse ride)

If you are planning on going horse back riding on the beautiful Icelandic horses, then ladies that need it – don’t forget to wear a good good supportive, comfortable sports bra. Going fast will cause bouncing.

Thermals

If you are visiting Iceland during winter, then warm wool long sleeve thermals, thermal leggings, and thick socks are essential. During summer you should stash some light thermal base layers into your bag just in case, especially if you are camping as it can still get cold at night. My favourite wool thermals and socks are from Ice Breaker. Full disclosure – they are a New Zealand brand so as a Kiwi myself I may be biased, but I think New Zealand merino wool is the best quality! They come in various weights for different levels of warmth, and unlike the polyester thermals, merino is both breathable and naturally anti-bacterial, it cleverly neutralises odour so you can get away with wearing them over many days without them getting stinky. The merino wool fibres are very fine, so they are softer and more flexible than standard wool, so don’t cause skin to itch. Ice Breaker also sell wool underwear, wool t-shirts (great when the weather is changeable), and outer layers like wool jumpers and hoodies.

If you prefer non-wool thermals, then I don’t recommend cotton thermals as they have a tendency to retain perspiration which can make you feel cold. Instead, try the Thermasilk range made of 100% silk. Although I haven’t tried them myself, they come highly recommended. They have a wide range of thermals including leggings, tops, socks and gloves. If you don’t wear animal products, then go for a good quality synthetic like this thermal set.

This is an image of me during our trip. It was so cold, windy, and sleety that I couldn’t open my eyes! However, the photo further down of my husband in the sun wearing a t-shirt was only a few days earlier!

Pashmina/Shawl

I always travel with a pashmina because they are just so versatile. Consequently, I have heaps of them in a range of colours. I use them as a scarf, as a shoulder wrap to keep me warm, or when I’m sitting up in bed, and as a blanket, especially when I’m travelling on the plane, bus or train or waiting in the departure lounge. I prefer a wool and cashmere pashmina like this one, but for those you that can’t wear wool, then try this synthetic pashmina.

I also use mine in a rather odd way – I use it to cover my head when I’m trying to sleep on the plane. Yes, it looks a tad weird, but I prefer it to sleep masks. It makes me feel like I’m in my own little private room/space, and it doesn’t matter how weird my sleeping facial expressions become, or how much I drool, because no one can see me. When I first did this, my husband pretended not to know me, but 15 hours into our flight he was getting really tired and succumbed to my strange ways and ended up with the other end of the pashmina over his head. Needless to say, he’s now a convert.

Gloves

These thermal gloves with a durable outer layer that is wind and abrasion resistant will keep your hands toasty warm. The inner layer is lined with a super soft fabric that wicks moisture away from the skin. They can also be used on touchscreen.

Warm Hat and Sunhat for Summer

This warm knitted headband is stylish and perfect for keeping your ears toasty warm and hair out of your face as you’re walking around during cold summer days. But on sunny days, have your sunhat with you. However, during the winter months, you are going to need a really warm wool hat like this one.

Here’s a photo evidencing that it can get really warm and sunny in Iceland! This was actually late September, however, the photo of me further above in the freezing cold was only a few days later. The weather is very unpredictable in Iceland, so be prepared for it all.

FOOTWEAR

Waterproof Shoes or Boots

During the warmer months, due to the wet weather and the amount of sightseeing that you will likely be doing, I would suggest wearing some good quality goretex hiking shoes that are not only comfortable, but will also keep your feet warm and dry. Dress is generally casual in Iceland, so don’t worry about feeling underdressed! I really like Merrells black Proterra gore-tex hiking shoes because they don’t look so much like ‘hiking shoes’ and look good for everyday wear.

If you are planning on visiting Iceland in winter, then I would recommend wearing warm, waterproof, Sorel winter boots, or if you prefer, some waterproof hiking boots like Merrells Moab goretex hiking boots.

If you are on a budget and can’t afford to buy new boots, then you could add some wool insoles into your current boots to make them a bit warmer.

Slippers

During the winter months, don’t forget to pack your warm slippers. I have poor circulation, so I can’t live without my slippers. Slippers do tend to take up a lot of room in your luggage, especially if you are travelling with hand luggage only, so try these warm, fleece lined, travel slippers that squash up small.

FOOD

Iceland is really expensive, so any food you can bring with you more cheaply from your own country, will help maintain your budget. I brought with me items like breakfast biscuits, snack bars, nuts, a bag of granola for breakfast, pasta, noodles, hot chocolate /coffee /tea, and of course a bit of the naughty stuff like chocolate and biscuits! Each person can bring up to 3kg of food each into Iceland, but no raw eggs, raw meat, or milk.

I also brought some sandwich bags, a few bag ties, and a food container so we could easily pack for picnics.

ACCESSORIES

Day Pack

A good quality, comfortable day pack is essential if you’re going hiking. But even if you are not planning on doing any walking, a day pack is handy to keep the things in that you want to access throughout the day, instead of digging around for it in your main bag. Especially if you are on a tour and your main bag is in the hold of the bus. I keep my water, snacks, camera, jacket, waterproofs, and umbrella in there.

Compact Travel Umbrella

Ok, let’s admit it, Iceland is not known for its sunny weather, and there is a very high chance that you will get caught in the rain. A light, compact umbrella is essential for ease of travelling, but you also need it to be super sturdy as it gets rather windy too. This tough travel umbrella fits the bill.

Packing Cubes and Travel Laundry Bag

I don’t know about you, but if I don’t use these packing cubes, my suitcase becomes a jumbled mess. When I’m trying to find a particular item (which is always at the bottom of the bag), I’m like a dog digging for a bone and my bag ends up in utter chaos. These packing cubes are a great way to keep your suitcase organised and tidy, and they really do make it so much easier to find exactly what you need and fast.

I also use a travel laundry bag to keep my dirty clothes separate from the clean ones. I like this laundry bag because its not bulky. Also, it’s not transparent, so not embarrassing to carry to the launderette if you need to do some washing whilst on holiday.

Portable Pegless Travel Clothes Line

This portable, pegless clothes line will come in handy if you get caught out in the rain or if you need to do some washing during your trip. The fun part is figuring out where to attach it in your room!

Travel Sized Washing Detergent

Some hotels and hostels have washing machines available use. These travel laundry detergent packs make it easy to do a load of washing during your holiday. They take up very little room in your bag.

Neck Pillow with Soft Cover

I never used to travel with a neck pillow because I hated the bulkiness of them and always thought that the inflatable ones looked uncomfortable. However, my Mother in law insisted that I borrow hers for a trip abroad. It was then I realised just how much comfort the right kind of neck pillow can provide, and I even managed to get some sleep on my flight. I was won over by how comfortable it was and ended up purchasing myself this comfy neck pillow.

Reusable Bag

Iceland is moving to ban the use of plastic bags, so bring your own reusable one. I love this Baggu reusable shopping bag because it’s super lightweight, comes in a range of colours and cute prints, folds away into its own little compact bag, and can easily be thrown in the wash.

Stainless Steel Drink Bottle

Make sure you pack a water bottle to stay hydrated. I love this stainless steel drink bottle as I am trying to cut down on my use of plastics. This bottle is leak proof and insulated so keeps hot water hot and cold water cold.

Mini Key Chain Flashlight

A little key chain flashlight can come in handy if you are visiting in the winter months (when the light hours are short) or you are planning on staying in a hostel (for reading without disturbing others). I love this mini flashlight so much that I also have one attached to my keys for everyday use. Its tough aluminium body and long life LED makes it perfect for travelling.

Cable Luggage Padlock

This padlock will not only keep your luggage secure, but is also handy if you’re planning on staying in a hostel (you usually need to provide your own padlock for the lockers that store your personal belongings). What I like about this cable luggage padlock is that it’s nice and light and the combination means you don’t have to scramble around looking for the key or risk losing it.

Sleep Mask for Summer Travels

The light hours are really long in summer, it can get as little as 3 hours of darkness! If you struggle to sleep in a light room, bring an sleep mask with you.

TOILETRIES

Lip Balm

Protect your lips from the harsh Icelandic weather by using Burt’s Bees lip balm. It’s my favourite lip balm because the beeswax provides long lasting coverage and it comes in the form of a chapstick. This multipack allows you to assign one to each family member or to stash them away in your bags and coat pockets.

Sunscreen & Sunglasses

If you are travelling during summer, then do bring sunscreen with you and your sunglasses.

Pocket Tissues

I can’t write a post about what toiletries to pack without mentioning pocket tissues. Even when I’m not travelling, I never leave home without these pocket tissue packs stashed into the pockets of my bags and coats. As well as using them to blow your nose, they have multiple other uses when travelling, including as a napkin, for make-up emergencies, and those many situations where you find yourself in a loo with no toilet paper!

Face Wipes

I always travel with a pack of wipes. Not only do they remove the daily grime and makeup from my face, but I also use them to clean my hands and nails when I don’t have access to good facilities to wash my hands (one of the challenges when travelling). They are also a great way to ‘freshen up’ when you are doing long haul travel and don’t have access to a shower. I love using RAWGANIC wipes as they are 99% natural and 100% biodegradable. Check out my post where I Review the Best Biodegradable Eco Friendly Face Wipes on the Market.

Travel Containers

These GoToobs might be on the slightly pricier side, but they are definitely worth it as you will get years of use out of them. These GoToobs meet airline carry on regulations for liquids and are food-safe (FDA) and 100% BPA and PC-free. The no-drip valve stops them from getting messy and the squeezy tube design makes it easy to get the product out.

The makers of GoToob also make really clever little storage containers called GoTubbs which can be opened one-handed. GoTubbs are great for storing jewellery, pills, and thick ointment. However, for liquids use the GoToobs as these containers aren’t very leak proof.